Senior Estimator - Utilities; Water bias

Senior Estimator – Utilities (Water Bias)

West Midlands
Full-time | Permanent
Up to £85,000 per annum + package (DOE)

An established and growing infrastructure and utilities contractor is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Estimator to support a strong pipeline of framework and project work across the West Midlands.

This is a key position within a close-knit pre‑construction team, offering direct day‑to‑day interaction with senior leadership
, real influence over bid strategy and a clear route for progression.

The role is design‑led and solution‑focused
, so it will suit someone with a strong background in the water sector (with an appreciation of associated electrical / MEICA elements) who is comfortable building estimates from first principles and developing methodologies — rather than purely pricing from historic rates.

• Prepare accurate, comprehensive and timely estimates and tender submissions for utility infrastructure projects.
• Build estimates from first principles using industry estimating software (e.g. Candy or equivalent) in line with internal cost libraries.
• Review drawings, specifications and client requirements to develop buildable and commercially viable solutions
  .
• Produce and maintain accurate quantities from available information to ensure robust project launch.
• Support design-and-build tenders
  , developing outline / draft design proposals where required.
• Evaluate project scope, risk and pricing strategy across multiple concurrent tenders.
• Obtain, analyse and level subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative construction methodologies.
• Lead tender handover into delivery teams, preparing clear and structured handover documentation.
• Work closely with operational, commercial and senior management teams to shape bid strategy.

• Proven experience in an Estimator / Senior Estimator role within the utilities sector
  , with a strong water bias.
• Demonstrable experience producing accurate first-principles estimates
  .
• Experience quantifying from drawings and technical information.
• Background in design-and-build tenders and developing cost-effective solutions.
• Good understanding of electrical / MEICA interfaces within utility schemes.
• Experience working in a framework / programme-driven environment with multiple tender deadlines.

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong commercial awareness
• Analytical with a proactive, solutions-focused approach
• Ability to take ownership of tenders from initial review through to handover
• Confident communicator, comfortable liaising with senior stakeholders
• Collaborative team player in a fast‑paced environment

• HNC / HND / Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction, Quantity Surveying or a related discipline
  or
• Equivalent industry experience in a professional estimating role

Professional membership (or working towards) is desirable but not essential.

• Salary up to £85,000 per annum depending on experience
• Clear and genuine progression within a growing business
• Direct exposure to directors and involvement in business-critical bids
• Varied, technically interesting utility infrastructure projects
• Supportive, agile and highly collaborative working environment